Avoid self-medication, seek proper medical care when unwell —Medical experts

A Medical Practitioner based in Abuja, Dr. Vincent Okaa, has cautioned Nigerians against self-medication, especially those in rural areas.

He said anyone that feels unwell should seek proper medical examination and diagnosis in certified hospitals managed by a qualified medical practitioner.

The physician said self-medication had become a major threat to peoples’ lives, especially to those residing in rural areas.

Okaa said prompt access to certified medical facilities should be the norm, adding, “But most people in rural areas either patronise pharmacies or quacks for medical attention. Some others resort to self-medication and drug abuse, which has serious repercussions.”

According to reports, some commonly abused drugs in rural communities are analgesics and antibiotics.

A patent medicine dealer in Apo community, Abuja, who would not want to be identified, said pain killers and antibiotics are the most commonly patronised drugs in the area.

According to him, “Analgesics and antibiotics, both for children and adults are in high demand here. I sell them quite often. Some come to tell me what is wrong with them – fever, body pains or infections and I give them medications to get relief.”

Another dealer in Kabusa community, who also did not want to be identified, said most people that patronise him usually buy analgesics and antibiotics.

“Most people living here are artisans, market men and women. After the day’s work, some will develop headaches, fever and body pains. They come here to buy drugs so that they can get relief and be able to go to work the next day. Some buy antibiotics for either toilet infection or sexually transmitted diseases,” he said.

A Community Pharmacist, Chidi Ezenduka, however, warned against regular consumption of analgesics and antibiotics, noting that it could damage vital organs in the body and cause complications.

“This is because interactions, drug overdose, drug underdose, adverse effects, drug abuse and drug-misuse can easily occur with the use of such cheap and common medications,” he added.